A triple threat on stage, Abby has her sights set on a life spent in the theater. It’s safe to say she’s off to an excellent start in pursuing this dream. Not only is she a powerhouse singer, but she can act and dance, too. Her talents and efforts frequently win her the lead roles in productions both in her school’s drama program and also community theaters. She learns her lines with studious aplomb and has regularly mentored younger students on their own paths to the spotlight. Now that she is readying herself for higher education and gathering her portfolio together, it was time for a key component: headshots.
I met Abby and her mom Kate at Borderland State Park in Easton, MA for the photoshoot on a soft July evening. We were going for a natural setting with gentle lighting, and Borderland certainly delivered. Earlier that day, Kate and I had been texting back and forth nervously about the weather because a huge rainstorm was predicted. It did pass through, but luckily right before our session. It made for some dreamy skies and totally empty trails, both of which worked in our favor.
We meandered the park, exploring ponds, creeks, and meadows. Abby was a total rockstar in front of the camera, which I had a feeling she would be given all of her experience in front of a crowd. There were some moments where she gazed straight into the camera in such an unflinching way that I had to catch my breath. Kate, all the while, was our solo support squad extraordinaire, managing Abby’s alternative outfits and offering touch-ups when needed.
Throughout the session, I also learned some really interesting facts about the town of Easton and Borderland Park’s history. Apparently Easton’s nickname is Shoveltown: the Ames family’s blacksmith shop in Easton sold shovels that were so successful that they were dominantly used in building railroads across the U.S. and also in digging trenches during World Wars I and II. The Ames Mansion in Borderland was a prominent filming location for the movie Knives Out. And, the little stone lodge on Leach Pond was the filming location for one of the most haunting scenes from Shutter Island. Who knew! You can see Abby posed in front of these landmarks below.
Thanks to Abby and Kate for a delightful (and educational) photoshoot. And, best of luck to Abby as she takes the leap and pursues her lifelong dreams!
